Colourful Interior Ideas: How to Master the Primary Play Trend
Words by Michaela Quinn
April 20, 2025
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6m
Dopamine décor has been making waves over the past few years, offering a vibrant, mood-boosting alternative to the calm, neutral interiors that have dominated design trends.
Although the odd sleep on a Inspired by the idea that colour can have a direct impact on our emotions, this aesthetic encourages bold choices, playful patterns, and unexpected combinations that spark joy. From vivid accent walls to statement furniture in bright hues, dopamine décor is all about creating a home that feels energetic and uplifting.
For 2025, a fresh twist on colourful interior design has emerged - Pinterest has coined the term ‘Primary Play’, a trend that takes dopamine décor to the next level by focusing on primary colours. Think striking reds, bold blues, and sunny yellows, all used in fun, graphic, and often retro-inspired ways. This approach embraces simplicity and nostalgia while injecting interiors with a playful and artistic edge.
Our own take on the trend – Modern Memphis – combines primary colours and striking shapes for an eclectic take on modern interiors.
If you're ready to swap neutral for bold and bring a sense of fun into your space, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for our top tips on embracing colourful interiors in 2025!
Set the Scene with Statement Décor
If you want to embrace colourful interiors, the best place to start is with your walls. Colour drenching (painting walls, ceilings, and even trims in a single shade) creates a striking, immersive effect that instantly transforms a space.
For a more unique look, why not try a statement wall with a hand-painted graphic design? Get creative with a paint brush and try geometric shapes, abstract patterns, or even a playful mural for a dose of personality and fun.
If you prefer a more minimalist base, white walls can be just as impactful, allowing your colourful furniture and accessories to truly pop.
Go Bold with Bright Furniture
Once you’ve set the stage, it’s time to introduce statement furniture that brings energy into your space. A striking sofa in a rich red, cobalt blue, or sunshine yellow can instantly become the focal point of a room. If you’re not ready to commit to a large colourful piece, try an accent chair or footstool in a playful print or colour.
Mixing different textures, like a velvet sofa in a striking hue paired with a tiled table, enhances the playful, eclectic feel of Primary Play décor. Don't be afraid to experiment with colour combinations; clashing can be cool when it’s done intentionally.
Have Fun with Finishing Touches
The easiest way to embrace dopamine décor is through vibrant accessories that bring instant joy. Colourful cushions, statement rugs and bold vases in primary hues can all add personality without overwhelming a space.
Consider incorporating artwork in bright, abstract styles, or even small decorative pieces like candlesticks or playful lamps in unexpected colours.
Ready to embrace colourful interior design? Here’s how to get the look in each room of your home.
Playful Living Rooms
The living room is the heart of the home, making it the perfect place to embrace an uplifting and energetic colour palette. A bold sofa in your favourite dopamine shade, whether it’s bright blue or sunny yellow, instantly creates a fabulous focal point.
Living rooms should always feel inviting and relaxing, so keep it cosy by layering soft furnishings in lively hues. Soft furnishings in contrasting shades can add depth while keeping the space warm and welcoming. Mixing patterns such as stripes and geometric prints can further enhance the playful aesthetic.
To balance the boldness in your living room, add different materials such as metallics, marble or wood; the perfect way to add contrast, breaking up intense colours and adding a touch of sophistication.
Bold Bedrooms
Your bedroom should reflect your personality, and what better way to showcase it than with pops of colour? Start with colourful bedding—layer different hues and textures to create a cosy yet visually striking effect. A brightly patterned duvet, eye-catching cushions, or a colour-blocked blanket can instantly refresh your space.
For the walls, consider a painted accent wall behind the bed in a vivid primary shade, or go for graphic wallpaper featuring playful designs. If you want to keep the walls neutral, use large-scale artwork in primary colours to inject personality.
Finish the look with colourful bedside lamps or a funky rug to make the space feel exciting yet restful.
Colourful Kitchens and Dining Areas
One of the best ways to embrace colour in your kitchen is through cabinetry—deep blue, fiery red, or sunny yellow cabinets can instantly transform the space.
Another easy way to bring colour into your kitchen is through dishware and accessories. Swap out plain white plates for colourful ceramics and mix-and-match glassware in lively shades.
In the dining area, a statement dining table or chairs in primary colours can create a striking, eclectic look. Pair them with playful placemats, vivid vases, and energetic artwork to complete the cheerful aesthetic.
So, whether you go all-in with saturated shades or add pops of colour through decor, a vibrant colour palette will set the tone for a joyful and personality-filled home.
Looking for some more colourful interior inspiration? Read our Q&A with Queen of Colour, Sophie Robinson.